Author:  Sandra Schols
Audience: general
Grade: Any
Materials:None
Activity time: About 60 min

On the first day of school challenge the students to a competition.

Who can remember the most about the other.

1) The students start, taking turns they each stand up and tell at least 5 facts about themselves.

For example: "My name is Shelley. This is my first year at this school. I have 3 sisters and one brother. I have a pet goldfish
called "Fluffy", and I like soccer."

2) Then tell at least 30 facts about yourself.

For example: "I'm married. I have 2 teenaged children, a girl
Kelly and a boy, Doug. I have a pet dog called "Baby" and about
50 walking stick bugs, etc etc."

3) When you are finished introducing yourself. The children get to
start, (heh, they're younger). let them volunteer answers and give
them a tally mark for each new fact they remember about you. After they have exhausted all possibilities, (usually around 39 facts for a
room of 28 grade 6/7 students) go around the room and try to
remember facts about them.

Teacher's Note: I usually win. Except for the last time I
tried this. Right in the beginning of my turn it was their P.E.
block and then recess. Ahhhh, I had to remember the facts for
over an hour. This is a great activity. I learn about them, and they also learn a lot about each other. Try it and let me know how it
went for you.

Editor's Note: I tried it and had a ball. The grade levels were
7 & 8 and both levels enjoyed this stress free way of getting to
know each other -- well worth a try in any classroom!